The Strength of Art Therapy...even through a Pandemic

The Covid-19 world-wide pandemic has created an end to life as we know it. Many have lost loved ones, jobs or a sense of control. The good thing about surviving past hard times is that it gives me the confidence to know that I can survive difficult times ahead. 

As I am living in the epicenter of New York, my mom who has underlying health issues was impacted by this virus a week ago. The fear of the possible outcomes consumed me, but thanks to great doctors and nurses she is home recovering. After many tears and prayers, I am consumed with the question of "What do i do now?"

Art has been my source of strength and clarity all my life. It is what I turn to when I need to gather up my strength for what is ahead. Just five years ago, I was having panic attacks from working for an abusive boss and a dead end job in fashion. As a result of the environment, I had to leave for the sake of my health. At this time I started to create leather jewelry for the first time. Leather was a material I never worked with and did not know where my efforts would lead me. When my art studio filled up with creations, I started to sell my products at street fairs in New York (with my mother's help). Within a matter months I created a company name (Amber Poitier) and presented at NYFW in 2015. 

Although the process to get to where I am now was unplanned and very difficult, it reminds me that the strength of art therapy can change the world. What I create as the designer of Amber Poitier helps to remind others of their triumphant strength.